London Bridge Things To Do: A Comprehensive City Guide

London Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks of the United Kingdom and a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the city and its many attractions. From the incredible views of the river and the skyline, to the bustling markets and the historic architecture, London Bridge is a great place to start any sightseeing tour of the city.

This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to London Bridge. We’ll cover the top activities, attractions, tours, and things to do around London Bridge. Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or with friends, this guide is here to help you make the most of your time in London.

History of London Bridge

London Bridge has a history that dates back to Roman times. The first London Bridge was built in the year 50 AD by the Romans, who used it to connect the City of London with Southwark on the south bank of the Thames. The bridge was destroyed by a great fire in the year 1580, and was rebuilt in stone shortly thereafter.

The current London Bridge is actually the fourth incarnation of the bridge; it was opened in 1894 and is composed of five granite arches with a total span of 270 metres. The bridge is something of an engineering marvel, as it was built to resist the ever-changing tide levels of the Thames.

What To Do Around London Bridge

London Bridge is a fantastic place to explore, whether you’re looking for history and culture or just want to take in the sights and sounds. Here are some of the top activities and attractions for visitors to explore.

Visit Borough Market

Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and most iconic markets, dating back to 1014. Located just south of London Bridge on Southwark Street, it is a great place to pick up fresh produce, food, and souvenirs. The market is open from Monday to Saturday and has a wide selection of stalls offering everything from cheese and charcuterie to artisanal breads and fresh pastries. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat; there are plenty of street food vendors offering an array of international cuisines for visitors to enjoy.

Explore The Tower Of London

The Tower Of London is one of London’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. Located on the north side of the River Thames, just a short walk from London Bridge, it is one of the most important historical sites in the city. The tower was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1078 and was used as a prison for many centuries. Today it is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can explore its fascinating history, view its grand architecture, and witness performances by the world-famous Beefeaters.

Take a Cruise on the Thames

One of the best ways to experience London is to take a cruise on the River Thames. There are a number of companies offering cruises ranging from leisurely sightseeing tours to romantic dinner cruises. From London Bridge, you can take a cruise upriver towards Westminster, passing iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and The Houses of Parliament along the way. You can also take a cruise downriver towards Greenwich, passing attractions such as The O2 Arena and The Cutty Sark.

Visit Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre

The Globe Theatre is one of London’s most iconic venues for theatre and performances. Located just south of London Bridge on Bankside, it was originally built in 1599 as a replica of an Elizabethan theatre for William Shakespeare’s plays. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to learn about Shakespeare’s works and their historical context. The theatre hosts regular performances from plays written by Shakespeare and other classic writers, as well as contemporary pieces.

Explore The Southbank Centre

The Southbank Centre is a complex of cultural venues located on the south side of the Thames opposite London Bridge. It is home to several world-class museums and galleries, including Tate Modern, National Theatre, Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, and Hayward Gallery. It’s also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Southbank Centre also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, exhibitions, and more.

Two Popular Tours Around London Bridge

Lunch Cruise on The Thames

Experience the sights and sounds of London from the comfort of your own river cruise boat with this Lunch Cruise on The Thames. This two-hour cruise takes you upriver past iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral before stopping at Greenwich Pier for lunch at a riverside restaurant. After lunch, your cruise will continue downriver towards Westminster before turning back towards London Bridge for your return journey. With an onboard bar offering drinks and snacks throughout your journey, this lunch cruise is the perfect way to experience all that London has to offer in style. Book a Lunch Cruise on The Thames here.

London By Night Bus Tour

This three-hour bus tour takes you around some of London’s most iconic sights at night. Your tour starts at London Bridge before heading downriver towards Westminster and passing by landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, and more. Along the way you will have plenty of time to get out and explore each location before continuing on your journey. This tour also includes an onboard guide who will provide you with interesting facts about each location as you pass by them. Book a London By Night Bus Tour here.

East End Walking Tour

This two-hour walking tour takes you through some of East London’s best-known neighbourhoods such as Brick Lane, Spitalfields Market, Columbia Road Flower Market, and Shoreditch. You will get a unique insight into East London’s vibrant culture as you explore its markets, shops, galleries, restaurants, pubs, and street art. Your knowledgeable guide will provide commentary throughout your tour and will point out interesting points of interest along the way. Book an East End Walking Tour here.

Conclusion

London Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in London and has been a major part of the city’s history since Roman times. It is a great place to explore with plenty of activities and attractions to see and do around it. Whether you want to explore its heritage or take in its stunning views, there’s something for everyone at London Bridge. Whether you’re looking for an exciting day out or just want to take in the sights and sounds of this incredible city, this comprehensive guide has got you covered with all the information you need to make the most out of your visit to London Bridge!